What are the common causes of painful hand rashes. How can you identify different types of hand rashes. When should you consult a doctor for a hand rash. What are the treatment options for various hand rashes.

Understanding Contact Dermatitis: A Common Cause of Hand Rashes

Contact dermatitis is a prevalent condition that can lead to painful hand rashes. It occurs when the skin comes into direct contact with irritants or allergens, resulting in inflammation, itching, and changes in skin color. There are two main types of contact dermatitis:

Irritant Contact Dermatitis

This form of contact dermatitis accounts for approximately 80% of cases. It occurs when the skin is exposed to substances that directly damage its protective barrier. Common irritants that can cause hand rashes include:

• Hand soaps and harsh detergents
• Rubber or latex gloves
• Nickel and gold jewelry
• Citrus fruits and other natural acids

Irritant contact dermatitis typically resolves once the offending substance is removed from contact with the skin. However, repeated exposure can lead to chronic inflammation and skin damage.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis

In contrast to irritant contact dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis is an immune-mediated reaction. It occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to a substance that it perceives as harmful. This can result in a rash, swelling, and irritation on the hands.

Common allergens that can trigger hand rashes include:

• Certain plants (e.g., poison ivy)
• Fragrances in lotions or cosmetics
• Metals (e.g., nickel in jewelry)
• Preservatives in skincare products

How can you differentiate between irritant and allergic contact dermatitis? While the symptoms may appear similar, allergic contact dermatitis often develops more slowly and can spread beyond the area of initial contact. A patch test conducted by a dermatologist can help identify specific allergens.

Eczema and Psoriasis: Chronic Skin Conditions Affecting the Hands

Chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis can also manifest as painful hand rashes. Understanding the characteristics of each can help in proper identification and management.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Eczema is a chronic condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. When it affects the hands, it can cause:

• Scaly patches that may be darker or lighter than surrounding skin
• Intense itching, especially at night
• Cracking and fissuring of the skin, particularly on the fingertips
• Worsening symptoms in cold or dry weather

While eczema is more common in children, many adults also experience the condition. What triggers eczema flare-ups on the hands? Common triggers include stress, exposure to irritants, changes in temperature or humidity, and certain fabrics.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that causes rapid skin cell turnover, resulting in the formation of thick, scaly patches. When psoriasis affects the hands, it can present as:

• Raised, red plaques covered with silvery-white scales
• Thickening of the skin, especially on the palms
• Nail changes, including pitting, discoloration, and separation from the nail bed
• Pain and stiffness in the joints (in cases of psoriatic arthritis)

How does psoriasis appear on different skin tones? On lighter skin, psoriasis typically appears pink or red with silvery-white scales. On medium skin tones, it may have a salmon color. On darker skin, psoriasis can appear violet with gray scales or dark brown, making it more challenging to diagnose.

Fungal Infections: An Often Overlooked Cause of Hand Rashes

Fungal infections can also cause painful rashes on the hands. One such condition is tinea manuum, a type of fungal infection similar to athlete’s foot but affecting the hands.

Tinea Manuum

Tinea manuum typically presents as:

• A rash with a raised, well-defined border
• Dry, scaly skin on the palms and between fingers
• Itching and burning sensations
• Possible spread to the nails, causing thickening and discoloration

How is tinea manuum contracted? This fungal infection can be acquired through direct contact with an infected person, animal, or contaminated soil. It can also spread from other parts of the body, such as the feet (in cases of athlete’s foot).

Allergic Reactions: From Mild Rashes to Severe Anaphylaxis

Allergic reactions can manifest as hand rashes ranging from mild irritation to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Understanding the spectrum of allergic reactions is crucial for proper management and knowing when to seek immediate medical attention.

Mild Allergic Reactions

Minor allergic reactions on the hands can occur due to exposure to various substances, including:

• Plant allergens while gardening
• New skincare products or lotions
• Certain foods during food preparation

These reactions typically cause localized itching, redness, and mild swelling. In most cases, they can be managed at home with over-the-counter antihistamines and topical corticosteroids.

Anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention. While it often affects multiple body systems, it can initially present as a rapidly spreading rash, which may start on the hands.

What are the warning signs of anaphylaxis? Key symptoms to watch for include:

• Sudden onset of hives or swelling
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Swelling of the throat or tongue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Nausea and vomiting

If you suspect anaphylaxis, seek emergency medical care immediately. Prompt administration of epinephrine is crucial in managing this condition.

Sun-Induced Skin Reactions: Beyond Simple Sunburn

While most people are familiar with sunburn, prolonged sun exposure can lead to various skin reactions on the hands, some of which can be quite painful and persistent.

Sunburn

Sunburn on the hands often occurs due to inadequate sun protection. Symptoms typically include:

• Redness and warmth of the skin
• Pain and tenderness to touch
• Itching as the burn begins to heal
• Peeling of the skin in the days following the burn

How does sunburn affect different skin types? While all skin types can burn, those with lighter skin are at higher risk. On darker skin tones, sunburn may appear as darkening of the skin or increased sensitivity rather than redness.

Polymorphous Light Eruption (PMLE)

PMLE is a common sun-induced skin reaction that can affect the hands, especially in individuals not accustomed to intense sun exposure. Symptoms include:

• Small, itchy red bumps or blisters
• Patches of eczema-like rash
• Onset within hours to days after sun exposure

Unlike sunburn, PMLE can recur with subsequent sun exposures but often improves as the skin adapts to sunlight over time.

Genetic and Autoimmune Conditions Affecting Hand Skin

Several genetic and autoimmune conditions can cause chronic or recurrent hand rashes. These conditions often require specialized medical management.

Genetic Skin Peeling Conditions

Certain genetic disorders can cause continuous peeling of the skin on the hands. These conditions, such as acral peeling skin syndrome, are characterized by:

• Painless, ongoing skin peeling
• Possible swelling and discoloration
• Worsening during summer or with frequent hand washing

While these conditions are rare, they can significantly impact quality of life and may require genetic counseling and specialized dermatological care.

Dyshidrotic Eczema

Dyshidrotic eczema, also known as pompholyx, is a type of eczema that specifically affects the hands and feet. It is characterized by:

• Small, itchy blisters on the palms and sides of fingers
• Intense itching and burning sensation
• Scaling and cracking of the skin as blisters heal
• Possible bacterial infection if blisters are scratched open

What triggers dyshidrotic eczema? While the exact cause is unknown, stress, allergies, and exposure to certain metals (like nickel) have been identified as potential triggers.

When to Seek Medical Help for Hand Rashes

While many hand rashes can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant medical attention. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Severe pain or swelling that interferes with hand function
• Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus
• Rashes that don’t improve with over-the-counter treatments
• Rashes accompanied by fever or other systemic symptoms
• Sudden onset of widespread rash, especially if accompanied by difficulty breathing

How can a dermatologist help diagnose the cause of a hand rash? Dermatologists may use various diagnostic tools, including:

1. Visual examination and medical history review
2. Skin scrapings or biopsies to rule out fungal infections or other conditions
3. Patch testing to identify specific allergens in cases of contact dermatitis
4. Blood tests to check for underlying systemic conditions or autoimmune disorders

Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms, prevent complications, and improve overall hand health.

Treatment Approaches for Various Hand Rashes

The treatment of hand rashes depends on the underlying cause. However, some general approaches can help manage symptoms and promote healing.

Topical Treatments

Many hand rashes respond well to topical treatments, including:

• Moisturizers to hydrate and protect the skin barrier
• Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and itching
• Topical calcineurin inhibitors for eczema and other inflammatory conditions
• Antifungal creams for fungal infections

How should topical medications be applied to hand rashes? It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully. In general, apply medications to clean, dry skin, and avoid occlusive dressings unless specifically recommended.

Systemic Treatments

For more severe or persistent hand rashes, systemic treatments may be necessary. These can include:

• Oral antihistamines for allergic reactions
• Oral corticosteroids for severe inflammatory conditions
• Immunosuppressive medications for autoimmune-related rashes
• Biologic therapies for conditions like psoriasis

Lifestyle Modifications and Prevention

In addition to medical treatments, certain lifestyle changes can help manage and prevent hand rashes:

• Identifying and avoiding triggers (e.g., irritants, allergens)
• Using gentle, fragrance-free soaps and moisturizers
• Wearing protective gloves when working with potential irritants
• Applying broad-spectrum sunscreen to hands when outdoors
• Managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling

What role does diet play in managing hand rashes? While the connection between diet and skin health is complex, some individuals may benefit from identifying and avoiding food triggers, particularly in cases of eczema or psoriasis. Consultation with a dermatologist or allergist can help determine if dietary modifications might be beneficial.

By understanding the various causes of painful hand rashes and implementing appropriate treatment strategies, individuals can effectively manage their symptoms and maintain healthy, comfortable hands. Remember, persistent or severe hand rashes should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

Causes and when to speak with a doctor

Hand rashes can result from allergic reactions, exposure to irritants, and sunburn. Health conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can also cause hand rashes. Treatment will depend on the cause.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of a rash on a person’s hands and when to seek medical help.

Below are images of different rashes on the hands from a variety of causes.

Contact dermatitis is a condition that causes changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to substances and accounts for around 80% of dermatitis cases.

These substances directly affect the skin and may cause rashes on the hands if this is the site of exposure.

Common skin irritants include:

• hand soaps
• rubber or latex gloves
• nickel and gold jewelry
• citrus and other natural acids

Contact dermatitis usually goes away once people remove the irritant.

Discover some triggers of contact dermatitis in this article.

Several substances can cause minor allergic reactions on the skin. These substances may affect the hands when a person is gardening, using a new lotion, or having exposure to a chemical with which they have an allergy.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts following contact with these substances, causing a rash, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves cause symptoms.

It is possible to treat many minor allergic reactions at home. Learn how here.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It sometimes begins with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives.

If the rash spreads quickly, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and trouble breathing.

A person who suddenly develops a rash following a sting, new medication, or exposure to another new substance should immediately contact a healthcare professional.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening condition. Learn more here.

Hives often appear as raised, dumpy rashes. The bumps are itchy and may appear lighter when someone presses on them. The condition can result from irritant and allergen exposure, underlying health conditions, and other physical triggers.

Hives can be acute or chronic, and nearly 20% of people will experience the condition at some time in their lives. The medical term for hives is urticaria.

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition. It causes scaly patches on the skin that may be darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. The patches may be all over the body or just in one place, such as the hands.

The rash often itches and may worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather. Eczema is more common in children than in adults. After childhood, eczema typically goes away by itself, but many individuals can have the condition in adulthood.

There is a variety of eczema types. Learn more here.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. This can cause rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly, patches of skin known as plaques. The condition can occur in any part of the body.

Psoriasis tends to appear pink or red on those with light or fair skin tones, with scales appearing silvery-white. On medium skin tones, it can appear salmon-colored and feature silvery-white scales. On darker skin tones, psoriasis could look violet with gray scales or appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Psoriasis on the hands may also affect the nails. People with the condition on their hands may develop the rash elsewhere, such as on the scalp.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but some medications can help manage the condition.

More information on psoriasis is available here.

Exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn on any part of the body. Clothing rarely covers the hands, so it is important that people remember to apply sun cream to the back of their hands, fingers, and wrists when applying to the rest of the body.

Sunburn may hurt at first and then begin itching. The skin may look dry, blister, or peel. Sunburn can affect all people, although those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning.

Find out how sunburn affects dark skin here.

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on their hands to peel continuously. This peeling will often be painless, but it may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort.

The peeling may worsen during the summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Learn more about peeling skin here.

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection of the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It usually causes a rash with a raised border.

A person may contract the infection from a person, animal, or soil with tinea manuum or from touching the feet of someone with athlete’s foot. The rash is usually very itchy and can cause the nails to discolor or look misshapen.

More information about tinea manuum is available here.

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes swelling, discoloration of the skin, and bumps. It can affect any part of the body, including the mouth and scalp, but some people first notice the rash on their wrists or hands.

Find out all there is to know about lichen planus here.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin’s deeper layers. If bacteria enter the skin, it can cause cellulitis.

A range of diseases or injuries can allow bacteria to penetrate the skin. A person can get cellulitis even after minor injuries, such as a cut from a razor or a bee sting.

Cellulitis may resemble a rash because it looks swollen and discolored, but it is a dangerous infection that can spread quickly.

Find out more about cellulitis here.

Treatment depends on the cause of the rash. It is usually safe to treat minor conditions, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, at home. The most common treatments include:

• steroid creams
• calamine lotion
• colloidal oatmeal
• moisturizers
• reducing sun exposure in cases of sunburn
• antifungal creams for fungal infections.

It is not possible to prevent all rashes. However, below are some strategies that may help:

• Use fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
• If a person has eczema, use a formulated cream, especially after washing hands.
• Wear gloves when working in the yard or using irritating chemicals.
• Avoid using medications, including medicated creams, unless necessary. This can reduce the risk of a medication-induced allergic reaction.

People should consult a doctor regarding any rash that does not go away on its own with home treatment. They should also seek medical attention if a rash starts spreading.

A person should call a healthcare professional immediately if:

• they have a fever and rash, or the rash shows signs of infection such as pus or oozing
• the rash is painful but not itchy
• the skin is very swollen
• they have other symptoms, such as symptoms of a cold or the flu
• a rash appears all over the body, especially after an insect sting or taking medication
• a person has a rash and has trouble breathing

Various substances, conditions, and infections can cause rashes on the hands.

Most rashes are not serious and will go away independently, even without treatment. If a rash hurts, appears suddenly, or does not go away, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Prompt medical treatment may ease the pain and treat the rash.

Causes and when to speak with a doctor

Hand rashes can result from allergic reactions, exposure to irritants, and sunburn. Health conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can also cause hand rashes. Treatment will depend on the cause.

In this article, we look at the possible causes of a rash on a person’s hands and when to seek medical help.

Below are images of different rashes on the hands from a variety of causes.

Contact dermatitis is a condition that causes changes in skin color, itching, and irritation. Irritant contact dermatitis results from direct exposure to substances and accounts for around 80% of dermatitis cases.

These substances directly affect the skin and may cause rashes on the hands if this is the site of exposure.

Common skin irritants include:

• hand soaps
• rubber or latex gloves
• nickel and gold jewelry
• citrus and other natural acids

Contact dermatitis usually goes away once people remove the irritant.

Discover some triggers of contact dermatitis in this article.

Several substances can cause minor allergic reactions on the skin. These substances may affect the hands when a person is gardening, using a new lotion, or having exposure to a chemical with which they have an allergy.

In allergic contact dermatitis, the immune system overreacts following contact with these substances, causing a rash, swelling, and irritation. This differs from irritant contact dermatitis, where the substances themselves cause symptoms.

It is possible to treat many minor allergic reactions at home. Learn how here.

Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life threatening allergic reaction that causes the body’s immune system to react aggressively to a substance. It sometimes begins with a slightly swollen rash similar to hives.

If the rash spreads quickly, it can lead to more severe symptoms, such as a swollen throat and trouble breathing.

A person who suddenly develops a rash following a sting, new medication, or exposure to another new substance should immediately contact a healthcare professional.

Anaphylaxis is a life threatening condition. Learn more here.

Hives often appear as raised, dumpy rashes. The bumps are itchy and may appear lighter when someone presses on them. The condition can result from irritant and allergen exposure, underlying health conditions, and other physical triggers.

Hives can be acute or chronic, and nearly 20% of people will experience the condition at some time in their lives. The medical term for hives is urticaria.

Find out what causes hives and how to treat them.

Eczema, sometimes called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition. It causes scaly patches on the skin that may be darker or lighter than the rest of the skin. The patches may be all over the body or just in one place, such as the hands.

The rash often itches and may worsen when the skin is dry or during cold or dry weather. Eczema is more common in children than in adults. After childhood, eczema typically goes away by itself, but many individuals can have the condition in adulthood.

There is a variety of eczema types. Learn more here.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that causes an overgrowth of skin cells. This can cause rashes, inflammation, and raised, scaly, patches of skin known as plaques. The condition can occur in any part of the body.

Psoriasis tends to appear pink or red on those with light or fair skin tones, with scales appearing silvery-white. On medium skin tones, it can appear salmon-colored and feature silvery-white scales. On darker skin tones, psoriasis could look violet with gray scales or appear dark brown and difficult to see.

Psoriasis on the hands may also affect the nails. People with the condition on their hands may develop the rash elsewhere, such as on the scalp.

There is no cure for psoriasis, but some medications can help manage the condition.

More information on psoriasis is available here.

Exposure to sunlight can cause sunburn on any part of the body. Clothing rarely covers the hands, so it is important that people remember to apply sun cream to the back of their hands, fingers, and wrists when applying to the rest of the body.

Sunburn may hurt at first and then begin itching. The skin may look dry, blister, or peel. Sunburn can affect all people, although those with lighter skin have a higher risk of burning.

Find out how sunburn affects dark skin here.

Several genetic conditions can cause the skin on their hands to peel continuously. This peeling will often be painless, but it may result in swelling, skin discoloration, and localized discomfort.

The peeling may worsen during the summer or after frequent handwashing or exposure to water.

Learn more about peeling skin here.

Tinea manuum is a type of fungal infection of the hands, similar to athlete’s foot. It usually causes a rash with a raised border.

A person may contract the infection from a person, animal, or soil with tinea manuum or from touching the feet of someone with athlete’s foot. The rash is usually very itchy and can cause the nails to discolor or look misshapen.

More information about tinea manuum is available here.

Lichen planus is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes swelling, discoloration of the skin, and bumps. It can affect any part of the body, including the mouth and scalp, but some people first notice the rash on their wrists or hands.

Find out all there is to know about lichen planus here.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the skin’s deeper layers. If bacteria enter the skin, it can cause cellulitis.

A range of diseases or injuries can allow bacteria to penetrate the skin. A person can get cellulitis even after minor injuries, such as a cut from a razor or a bee sting.

Cellulitis may resemble a rash because it looks swollen and discolored, but it is a dangerous infection that can spread quickly.

Find out more about cellulitis here.

Treatment depends on the cause of the rash. It is usually safe to treat minor conditions, such as contact dermatitis and eczema, at home. The most common treatments include:

• steroid creams
• calamine lotion
• colloidal oatmeal
• moisturizers
• reducing sun exposure in cases of sunburn
• antifungal creams for fungal infections.

It is not possible to prevent all rashes. However, below are some strategies that may help:

• Use fragrance-free moisturizers to reduce the risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
• If a person has eczema, use a formulated cream, especially after washing hands.
• Wear gloves when working in the yard or using irritating chemicals.
• Avoid using medications, including medicated creams, unless necessary. This can reduce the risk of a medication-induced allergic reaction.

People should consult a doctor regarding any rash that does not go away on its own with home treatment. They should also seek medical attention if a rash starts spreading.

A person should call a healthcare professional immediately if:

• they have a fever and rash, or the rash shows signs of infection such as pus or oozing
• the rash is painful but not itchy
• the skin is very swollen
• they have other symptoms, such as symptoms of a cold or the flu
• a rash appears all over the body, especially after an insect sting or taking medication
• a person has a rash and has trouble breathing

Various substances, conditions, and infections can cause rashes on the hands.

Most rashes are not serious and will go away independently, even without treatment. If a rash hurts, appears suddenly, or does not go away, it may indicate a more serious problem.

Prompt medical treatment may ease the pain and treat the rash.

Treatment of skin rashes | Dobromed

Causes of a rash on the body: symptoms of infectious diseases

Very often, red rashes on the body are caused by a reaction to external stimuli. But along with a deterioration in well-being, a skin reaction becomes a sure sign of problems inside the body. So, before looking for a cure for a rash, it is necessary to determine the disease-cause. The disease is caused by the measles virus, which is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person by airborne droplets. The disease usually affects children. The onset of measles is characterized by lethargy, headaches, cough, fever (up to 39degrees), runny nose, pain in the eyes and photophobia. On the 3-4th day, pinkish-white uneven spots on the palate and a red rash on the skin appear on the palate. The rashes are usually very small, red, forming large spots. Initially, they are localized on the patient’s face, his neck, in the area behind the ears, but later they move to the rest of the surface of the body. Treatment of measles is based on taking antihistamines, drinking plenty of water, and bed rest.

Rubella

Rubella is a viral disease that mainly affects children, but it also occurs in adults. Rubella is especially dangerous for pregnant women: in this case, there is a high probability of infection of the fetus, which can lead to congenital malformations of the child.

Rubella appears as a small rash on the body and sometimes on the face. In addition, irritation can affect the mucous membranes. The rash usually does not itch, and after the rash disappears, there is usually no peeling, no scarring or other marks. A characteristic rise in temperature to 37-37.5 degrees and an increase in lymph nodes only confirm the presence of rubella.

Chickenpox

Chickenpox or, as it is popularly called, chickenpox, belongs to the category of acute viral diseases. Infection occurs by airborne droplets when communicating with a sick person. With chickenpox, a pinkish spot first appears, which after a few hours turns into a small bubble. Then the bubble bursts, and the opened wound is covered with a crust. Among other things, such an itchy rash provokes the appearance of scratching and further irritation. Combing a rash on the skin with chickenpox is strictly prohibited. The fact is that rashes affect the upper layers of the skin, so after the papules dry, most often there are no traces left on their dream. If the papule is combed, damage to the germ layer of the epidermis will occur, which leads to scarring. The treatment of chickenpox consists in taking antiviral drugs (in moderate and severe forms), antihistamines, as well as local treatment of rashes with brilliant green or fucorcin. If the patient has a fever, he is given antipyretic drugs (if the patient is a child, aspirin is prohibited).

Herpes

A viral disease that manifests itself in the form of blistering rashes on the skin, mucous membranes and genitals. The herpes virus is dormant in almost all people: about 90% of the world’s population is infected with this virus. The impetus for its activation is usually hypothermia, stressful situations, lack of sleep, unbalanced nutrition, injuries, overwork, viral diseases and a general decrease in the level of the body’s defenses. In this case, the herpes virus “wakes up.” A rash on the skin with herpes is represented by one or more adjacent bubble chambers filled with a cloudy light liquid. Along the edges of the bubbles is a reddened area of ​​the skin with dried crusts. Places of rashes with herpes hurt and itch, body temperature may rise (especially with a large localization of the rash).

Facial rash

Herpes skin rash is treated with antivirals, analgesics and topical ointments. However, to date, alas, there is no such method of therapy that completely removes the herpes virus from the human body. All currently available methods of treatment are aimed at reducing the frequency of exacerbations of the disease, their intensity and duration.

Herpes zoster

This skin disease is characterized by the appearance of primary symptoms resembling the onset of a flu-like condition: body aches, headache, chills, slight fever. A few days later, a more serious increase in temperature occurs – usually up to 38-39degrees. Around the same time, characteristic rashes appear on the patient’s skin – reddish-pink spots, which then transform into small-diameter bubbles with a cavity filled with a clear liquid. Skin rashes are painful to the touch, the patient feels burning and itching. The location of the rash is usually limited to the face and chest area, however, in some cases, the disease also affects the arms or legs. The course of shingles resembles the course of chicken pox: the rash dries out over time, crusts appear on the skin in its place, which are very itchy and itchy. This similarity is due to the cause of both diseases: both chickenpox and shingles are caused by the same herpes zoster virus. Skin rashes with shingles are treated with antihistamines, analgesics and antivirals. Local therapy is also prescribed: skin rashes are recommended to be treated with an antiseptic (brilliant green, fukortsin) – this helps prevent the possibility of an infection bubble getting inside and further suppuration. Vaccination is currently used to prevent relapse.

Pyoderma

The disease is provoked by staphylococci and streptococci. These pyogenic bacteria penetrate deep into the skin due to a violation of its integrity, the action of temperature factors, as well as malfunctions in the circulatory system, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract and metabolic processes. Long-term therapy with the use of corticosteroid and cytostatic drugs can also provoke the onset of the disease. Usually, with pyoderma, hair follicles, sweat and sebaceous glands are affected, both at the surface and at the deep level. Initially, a bubble (conflict) is formed on the affected area of ​​the skin, filled with a cloudy liquid, which then dries up and forms a serous-purulent crust. After healing, the crust disappears, scars usually do not form. Treatment of pyoderma is based on the use of antibiotics inside, as well as local therapy – treatment of skin rashes with antiseptics, antimicrobial ointments. It will be useful to use physiotherapy – UHF therapy for deep forms of pyoderma, as well as the internal use of vitamin complexes.

Folliculitis

Inflammation of the hair follicle is caused by bacteria and fungi. Pathogens enter small wounds and microcracks on the skin that appear from friction with clothes, in cases of insufficient personal hygiene, with increased sweating, metabolic disorders. The onset of the disease is characterized by the appearance of a small red spot on the skin around the hair, which then turns into an abscess. After the abscess opens, a crust appears on the skin. If untreated, further development of the disease is possible with the formation of a boil, carbuncle. For the treatment of this disease, local procedures are usually performed – treatment of the inflamed element with antimicrobial ointment or antiseptics. In severe cases, systemic use of antibiotics and antifungal drugs.

Non-infectious rashes

Atopic dermatitis (allergy)

Allergy is often manifested by a red rash on the skin, including in unusual places – on the palms, scalp, toes. If you do not think about how to treat an allergic skin rash, atopic dermatitis can develop into other forms of allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma). In this case, the first remedy for a rash is to identify and remove the source of the allergy. In addition, antihistamines, anti-inflammatory creams, ointments are prescribed.

Skin rash associated with contact dermatitis

It develops when the skin comes into direct contact with an irritant. KD manifests itself in the form of a rash and itching on the body at the points of contact with an aggressive substance. When treating such a rash on the body, special care is needed for the affected areas of the skin: elimination of the cause of contact dermatitis, protection against infections, hygiene, restoration of the skin.

Eczema

Eczema is a non-contagious skin disease that appears as a result of external stimuli (chemical, mechanical or thermal) or internal disorders (malfunctions of the endocrine, nervous system, gastrointestinal tract). With eczema, a small reddish-pink rash covers the skin. Rashes are represented by seropapules and microvesicles – small vesicles that quickly open and weeping erosions appear in their place. After some time, weeping begins to dry out, which is why crusts form on the skin. For the treatment of eczema, corticosteroid ointments, vitamin complexes, sedatives, and antipruritics are usually used.

Rosacea on the face

The scientific name for rosacea is rosacea. A distinctive feature of the disease is the appearance of a skin rash on the face, represented by reddened tubercles. The skin under the rashes usually thickens, the vessels become more visible. Most often, the skin of the nose and cheeks is affected, and the rash can also spread to the forehead and chin. In addition to rashes with rosacea, eye damage often appears, expressed by reddening of the proteins, lacrimation, dryness and pain. diseases, chronic stress, infection, malnutrition, alcohol abuse. You can treat a skin rash with rosacea with antibiotics, sedatives, vitamin complexes, as well as local remedies – creams and gels. If the skin rash is accompanied by inflammation, corticosteroid ointments may be prescribed.

Urticaria

The main distinguishing feature of urticaria is extensive edematous pink blisters on the skin, resembling traces from contact with nettle leaves. The rash is very itchy and itchy. The cause of the appearance of skin rashes is usually the reaction of the immune system to a particular allergen. For the treatment of urticaria, antihistamines, corticosteroids, and sedatives are usually prescribed.

Rash on the face

The most unpleasant in terms of aesthetics is the rash on the face: due to the fact that this part of the body is almost always in sight, it is very difficult to hide the rash – this causes the patient a lot of inconvenience. The cause of a rash on the skin of the face may be an incorrectly selected cosmetic product, therapy with the use of corticosteroid drugs, poor personal hygiene, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, hormonal surges, uncontrolled intake of antibiotics, stress, an unbalanced diet, as well as some allergic reactions and infectious diseases. .

Rash on the hands

Rash on the skin of the hands can be caused by contact or atopic dermatitis, exudative erythema, fungal infection, lupus erythematosus, syphilis, poor personal hygiene, excessive sweating of the palms.

Rashes on the legs

The appearance of rashes on the skin of the legs may be the first symptom of infectious diseases, autoimmune diseases, allergic reactions to insect bites, the use of a new food or cosmetic product.

Rash on the neck

Rash on the skin of the neck (especially on the scalp at the back of the head or behind the ears) may be caused by poor hygiene, infection in the hair follicles, increased sweating, rubbing of the collar of the clothes against the skin, allergic reactions (in in particular – on wearing jewelry), hormonal changes in the body.

How to treat a rash with medication?

Of course, the first thing to do when such irritation appears on the skin is to determine its cause. Then – start treating the underlying disease, because a skin rash is just a symptom. Usually, the treatment of an allergic rash on the body, arms, legs, face and neck is based on the use of antihistamines, corticosteroid or non-hormonal ointments and creams, sedatives (if the rash itches and itchy), treatment of skin rashes with brilliant green or fukortsin, dieting. Dermovate, Lokoid and Advantan can be mentioned as effective corticosteroid drugs. From non-hormonal agents, Bepanten, Desitin, Gistan, Glutamol are usually prescribed.

How to treat a rash with traditional medicine?

There are many prescriptions available to help treat skin rashes. However, keep in mind that folk methods for treating rashes cannot be used as independent and basic ones: in any case, it is impossible to cure a skin rash with “grandmother’s” methods alone. In addition, before starting alternative therapy, you should definitely consult a doctor. For skin rashes, it is useful to make lotions from black tea. Compresses from sage, chamomile or string are also effective. To prepare each of these products, you need to pour one teaspoon of dry raw materials with a glass of boiling water and let it brew for two hours. After that, it is recommended to strain the infusion and make gauze compresses and lotions on the site of the rash. If the skin rash on the body is represented by a large area, it is much more convenient to do not compresses, but baths with the addition of chamomile and string. The infusion is prepared as follows: you need to take 5 tablespoons of dry plants, pour three liters of boiling water, leave for two hours and add the resulting remedy to a warm bath. pour 100 ml of purified or boiled water, stir to dissolve the mumiyo. Smear the rash with the resulting solution. Freshly squeezed carrot juice is very useful in the treatment of skin rashes. It is recommended to drink it twice a day before meals, one glass each.

Care products to restore healthy looking skin

Rashes cannot be treated with skin care products alone. However, when the healing process begins, it is necessary to provide the skin with sufficient hydration and nutrition. You can do this with the help of La Cree. La Cree Revitalizing Cream is an effective cream for allergic rashes, which also helps in the treatment of other types of skin rashes. This tool has a regenerating, soothing and anti-inflammatory effect. The rash cream contains a number of natural additives – walnut extract, succession, violets and licorice, avocado oil, bisabolol, panthenol. These components soothe and soften the skin, promote the healing of scratches and cracks that occur during itching, and have an antimicrobial effect. Panthenol has a regenerating and cleansing effect, strengthening the natural barrier of the epidermis.

Opinion of specialists

The conducted clinical study proves the high efficiency, safety and tolerability of La Cree products for daily skin care of a child with mild and moderate atopic dermatitis and during remission, accompanied by a decrease in the quality of life of patients. As a result of therapy, a decrease in the activity of the inflammatory process, a decrease in dryness, itching and flaking was noted.0005

• reduces itching and irritation;
• relieves skin redness;
• moisturizes and cares for the skin.

According to the results of clinical trials, product packaging contains information that the creams are recommended by the St. Petersburg branch of the Union of Pediatricians of Russia.

Discussion of skin problems with a dermatovenereologist clinic Euromed

In summer, in the heat, various dermatological diseases often appear or worsen. Who among us has not experienced irritation, reddening of the skin, incomprehensible rashes or an allergic reaction to plants or insect stings in the summer? Together with Elena Anatolyevna FEOKTISTOVA, a dermatovenereologist at the Euromed clinic, we talk about the most common “summer” skin troubles.

In the warm months, new disease-provoking factors appear in our lives: heat and, as a result, increased sweating, active solar radiation, sudden temperature changes from hot to cool, a large number of plants and insects with which we come into daily contact. And all this can lead to certain problems that appear on our skin.

Acne Mallorca

Mallorca acne is sometimes also referred to as “summer acne”. Hot days provoke increased sweating, the sun dries the skin, and as a result, the sebaceous glands become clogged, leading to acne. A provoking factor for the appearance of such rashes can also be cosmetic products that clog the skin.

Most often, rashes are localized on the chest and between the shoulder blades – there are many sebaceous glands in these places, and sweat is concentrated here.

Symptoms

Acne that appears in the summer and disappears on its own in the winter.

Bacterial infections

Against the background of excessive sweating, streptococcal and staphylococcal infections may appear.

Streptococci and staphylococci are bacteria that cause the development of many diseases, and not only dermatological ones. Streptococcal and staphylococcal infections are very diverse: they can be skin, respiratory, digestive, genital, etc. Diseases caused by a bacterial infection are usually severe and can lead to complications.

Staphylococcal infection is transmitted in various ways: food, contact, aerosol, airborne dust. To prevent the spread of bacteria, it is important to observe personal hygiene, thoroughly wash hands, food, dishes, children’s toys, and regularly do wet cleaning in the room.

Staphylococci can persist in the food environment for a long time, animal products are at risk of infection (animals also suffer from staphylococcal infection): in non-boiled milk, not fried meat, soft-boiled eggs, in fermented milk products, in ice cream, in confectionery.

Symptoms of a bacterial infection

Often, the presence of a staphylococcal or streptococcal infection can be judged by skin lesions. A bacterial infection can cause the appearance of boils, phlegmon, abscesses, sycosis (inflammation of the hair follicles), pyoderma (purulent skin lesions), burn-like skin syndrome, etc. Streptococcal infection can cause erysipelas, which is characterized by severe itching, burning, redness of the skin.

It is important to understand that these infections affect more than just the skin and can present with a variety of other symptoms.

Herpes

Changes in temperature, when we go into an air-conditioned room from the heat or sit in a cool car or bus, can lead to an exacerbation of herpes, both simple and herpes zoster.

Herpes is a viral, highly contagious disease, manifested by the appearance of small, painful blisters on the skin. The herpes virus can live in the human body for years, and manifest itself with a decrease in immunity, hypothermia, and stress. There is simple and herpes zoster.

Simple is localized on the lips, on the genitals. It can go further and cause inflammation of the oral mucosa – stomatitis, which in turn can turn into herpetic sore throat.

Herpes zoster is a relative of chicken pox. This disease is caused by the same virus. That is, after a person has had chickenpox, a virus could lurk in his body, and in such a “sleep” mode, the virus can exist in the body for decades! And manifest itself at the time of weakening of the immune system, stress, overwork, etc. And herpes zoster can lead to the development of herpes zoster – an extremely unpleasant and painful disease and herpetic neuralgia – a very painful condition.

Symptoms of herpes

• Small vesicular, filled with turbid liquid, painful rashes on the lips, in the mouth, on the genitals.

• Pain, itching in places of rashes.

• Painful eruptions on chest, on one side, along ribs; sometimes on the neck.

• Severe intercostal pain (with herpes zoster).

Posttraumatic microbial eczema

This disease can develop against the background of insect bites, mosquitoes, midges, cuts, abrasions, chafed legs, sunburn and other skin lesions that are so frequent in summer. Individual reaction of the skin to damage, especially against the background of reduced immunity or hereditary predisposition, or a metabolic failure, etc. can lead to microbial eczema.

Symptoms of post-traumatic microbial eczema

• itching;

• swelling and redness of the skin;

• rash in the form of bubbles, sometimes filled with pus;

• the formation of crusts in the places of opening of the bubbles.

If left untreated, post-traumatic microbial eczema becomes chronic.

Contact dermatitis

Contact dermatitis is the general name for dermatological disorders resulting from direct skin exposure to irritating chemicals. There are three types of this disease:

Simple contact dermatitis, which develops as a result of exposure to the skin of chemical irritants (acids, alkalis).

Allergic contact dermatitis can be caused by contact with metals, latex, dyes, plants, cosmetics, medicinal ointments, sunscreens.

Phototoxic contact dermatitis is an individual reaction to ultraviolet light, the so-called sun allergy.

Symptoms

• contact dermatitis develops exclusively on the area of ​​​​the skin that has been in contact with the allergen. Symptoms may not appear immediately, but several days after exposure.

• itching

• local redness, swelling

• eruptions in the form of blisters filled with liquid

• erosion

Erythematous diaper rash

This is a superficial inflammatory lesion of the skin, usually develops in places of skin folds, adjacent surfaces. Most often this disease occurs in children. The main causes of the development of the disease are excessive sweating, fungal and streptococcal infections, and metabolic disorders.

Symptoms

• redness of the skin (without sharp borders with a healthy area)

• blistering rash

• abrasions with indistinct outlines, cracks

• edema

• pain, burning in places of skin damage

• bad smell

If you notice any of the above symptoms, do not delay – contact a dermatologist! Most diseases, while seemingly harmless, do not go away on their own, and can either flow into a chronic form or provoke the development of more severe conditions.